Sylvia Washington

Sylvia Marie Washington, affectionately known as “Syvie” was born on Tuesday, December 12, 1944, to the union of, Otis and Mary Washington (both preceding her in death) in Chicago, Illinois. Syvie grew up in a loving household surrounded by a supportive family that cherished her dearly. She was the third oldest of her siblings, five of whom–Robert Washington, Alfred Washington, Raymond Washington, Jane Clark, and Lisa Washington–preceded her in death. Syvie accepted Christ at an early age at Metropolitan Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend Ledbetter in Chicago, Illinois. She later got baptized at St. Joseph Baptist Church in Chicago, Illinois, under the leadership of the late Reverend Davis. Syvie received her education at Crane High School on the Westside of Chicago. She gained and developed strong work ethics at an early age working at White Castle. This experience prepared her for a venture into a world of entrepreneurship, resulting in opening her own restaurant on 87th and Ashland called Sylvia’s Place, where her brother Timmy was the cook. After a desire for change and new opportunity, she worked at Publix Office Supplies/Corporate Express in Chicago, Illinois. Corporate Express relocated to Woodridge, Illinois, where she remained until her retirement. Syvie married the love of her life Stewart Washington (who preceded her in death) where they raised six girls. She was a devoted wife and the proud matriarch of a close-knit family, including her children and grandchildren, all of whom brought immense joy to her life. She enjoyed cooking, baking and bowling. She especially loved preparing home cooked meals for her family and welcomed her children’s friends with the same warmth. Her signature dishes–stuffed peppers, caramel cake, and dumplings–were always made with love and are fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of enjoying them. And we cannot forget “her secret to staying pretty.” Syvie, was preceded in death by her loving husband Stewart Washington. Syvie leaves to cherish her memory: six daughters: Annetta, Regina (Lloyd), Veronica (Mark), Tanika (Anthony), Tammi and LaToya (Jonathan); one sister, Patricia; three brothers, John, Timothy, and Marvin; and a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. May her legacy continue to guide us, and may we honor her life by living ours with the same grace, love, and strength.

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